The speculation erupted after reports alleged that the governor held a secret meeting with former PDP National Chairman, Senator Iyorchia Ayu, in Makurdi.
Governor Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, described the claim as “fabricated, malicious and laughable.” He said the story was simply part of a coordinated attempt to distract his administration and create unnecessary tension within the ruling party.
According to Kula, those spreading the rumour are pushing a mischievous smear campaign intended to mislead the public and sow distrust between the governor and the Presidency.
He noted that Governor Alia’s leadership style has always involved consulting elder statesmen, political leaders, and religious figures across the state. The governor has reportedly visited several influential personalities—irrespective of their political affiliations—because he believes inclusive engagement is essential for unity and development.
Kula emphasized that the governor reserves the right to meet any respected elder, including Senator Ayu, without such interactions being twisted into false narratives.
The spokesperson further clarified that Governor Alia has never contemplated defecting from the APC. Instead, he has been consolidating the party since assuming office. In recent months, several notable political figures—such as Prof. David Iornem, Elder David Amo, and Ambassador Terhemen Tarzoor—have joined the APC through the governor’s influence.
The APC structure in Benue State has also been expanding across various local government areas, with many former opposition blocs reportedly collapsing into the ruling party.
Kula argued that the growing support base of the APC contradicts claims being circulated by political opponents. He added that Governor Alia remains focused on strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 elections and is open to engaging even his strongest critics if doing so will bring unity and promote development in the state.
The statement urged the public to disregard the rumours completely, insisting they are deliberate attempts to cause confusion and destabilize the APC’s cohesion in Benue.
